The Modular Survival System

Being a Prepared Citizen means not only working on skills and training when possible but it also means having a kit that is ready to go for a wide variety of scenarios. The future is very unpredictable, and we have no idea what kind of disaster or conflict is going to occur here in the US. That’s why I like having a pre-setup kit that I can grab when needed. And having something that is modular and highly adaptable is a bonus. 

One thing to note. There are items that you should carry on you at all times. These “1st line” or EDC items are the bare bones items you will rely on if you are separated from your gear. They should be a compass, pocket knife, wallet, keys, lighter, bandanna, etc.

Full video on my YouTube Channel!

Breaking Down The System:

1. Scout Belt Kit
2. Chest Pack
3. Assault Pack
4. Sustainment Pack

1. Scout Belt Kit

The scout belt system I put together using various pieces of military surplus has a very specific purpose for my use. I wanted a lightweight, modular kit that could be worn all day out scouting a rural location. Butt packs and lumbar packs are great for this scenario too and are readily available commercially. But they all have the flaw that you are stuck with their configuration; the ability to add things like holsters or knife sheaths are not possible. So for me a belt kit that I built specific to my needs was the best option. 

I started the journey using a standard alice belt, Y-suspenders, surplus butt pack and canteen pouches. It worked well but was heavy, clunky and uncomfortable at times. Alice clips tend to dig into you and are not always that secure. I started looking at other options and noticed many different types of molle belt pads on the military surplus market. I picked up an air force issued molle belt pad from an online retailer for cheap. Paired that with Marine corp y-suspenders and then added canteen pouch, general purpose pouch, IFAK, multi-tool, fixed blade knife and a holster. And since its molle pouches can be removed or added to fit the mission. If I want to support a rifle, I can add a mag pouch easily.

The new set-up was low profile and did not weigh a ton. It hugs my body without protruding out too far. Plus, you can easily wear a chest rig or hill people gear style kit bag with it or even wear a backpack or hydration pack for longer days in the field. This now becomes a system of carrying gear instead of being forced into one method or carry. The system can expand or shrink as needed depending on the mission. 

Kit Cost to Build:

• Belt – $16
• Belt Pad – $15
• Suspenders – $20
• Canteen Pouch – $20
• Multi-Tool Pouch – $15
• Utility Pouch – $25
• IFAK Pouch – $12
• TQ Pouch – $15
• Holster – $15

Scout Belt Kit Contents:

• Canteen
• Canteen Cup/w Lid
• Spork
• Esbit Stove
• Coffee Singles
• Soup Mix
• Hydration Mix
• Energy Bars
• Multi-Tool
• Fixed Blade Knife (4”)
• Ferro Rod
• Butane Lighter
• Waterproof Matches
• Water Purification Tabs
• Whirl Bags
• Space Blanket
• Drum Liners
• Bank Line
• Headlamp
• Small Saw
• IFAK with TQ

2. Chest Pack

There is an endless supply of chest packs and chest rigs to choose from. It all depends on what kind of money you want to spend and what kind of configuration you are looking for. Some have a very specific intended use; like rifle mag chest rigs. Others are more flexible and can be used to conceal a pistol, support a rifle or just be used to house your navigation and admin gear. For this system I prefer a more modular and flexible chest pack that can be used in a variety of ways. After all that is the point of this whole system so the chest pack needs to be adaptable as well. 

Currently I am running a Full Tang Tactical Kit Bag. It is not the cheapest option but it’s made in the USA and offers a very flexible system.The main pouch is large and lined in soft sided velcro so you are able to add different pouches, organizers or even a holster. In back of the main pouch is a slot that is lined in soft sided velcro as well. Its intent is for a zippered pouch or a three rifle mag shingle to be inserted. The whole bag is backed in velcro so wings, danglers and even the harness system can be added or removed. Once again, very modular!

I keep my primary land nav and admin gear in the chest pack along with a radio. The three mag shingle is left empty when I am not carrying my AR. But if I need to carry a rifle the slots are available and now the chest pack becomes a chest rig.

Chest Pack Contents:

• Sighting Compass
• Grid Reader
• Maps
• Notebook/Pen
• Signal Mirror
• Whistle
• Signal Panel
• Rangefinder
• Glow Sticks
• Radio
• Spare Radio Battery
• Red Map Light
• Small First Aid Items
• Bic Lighter
• Lip Balm
• TQ
• Rifle Mags x3 (optional)

3. Assault Pack (15L -18L)

This element is as it sounds. A backpack designed to carry a hydration bladder and a few extra sustainment items such as a poncho and some additional food. The pack’s purpose is to extend the range of the belt kit particularly in summer months. It is a small lightweight pack in the 15-18L range. 

Hydration Pack Contents:

• 3L Hydration Bladder
• Poncho
• Space Blanket
• Woobie
• 550 Cord
• 1-2 Days Food
• Water Filtration System
• Weapons Maintenance Kit
• Socks
• Mission Specific Equipment

4. Sustainment Pack (30L – 50L)

The sustainment pack is more difficult to define. Everyone has different needs when in the field. A sustainment pack for me should be able to house equipment that will support me if I spend the night in the field 2-7 days. It should be able to carry some kind of sleep system, shelter system, food, water, cooking equipment, maintenance gear, survival gear, clothing and first aid. The pack can be anywhere from 30L – 50L depending on weather and season. 

Sustain Pack Contents:

• Hammock
• Rain Fly
• Sleeping Bag
• Pad
• Pillow
• Food
• Stove
• Pot
• Utensils
• Bowl/Cup
• Socks
• Warm Layers
• Personal Hygiene Items
• Toilet Paper
• Shovel
• Saw
• Canteens
• Water Filtration System
• Solar Charging System